Nrityagram: A Village Dedicated to Dance

Nrityagram, meaning 'dance village', is a unique institution founded by Odissi dancer Protima Gauri in 1990. Located near Hesaraghatta Lake, about 30 km from Bengaluru, this residential school is India's first modern Gurukul dedicated to Indian classical dances. The vision behind Nrityagram was to create a community where dance is a way of life, fostering artistic growth and deeper connections between people and art. The school offers intensive training in various classical dance forms, including Odissi, Mohiniattam, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, and Manipuri. Following the ancient Guru-shishya tradition, students live and learn in close proximity to their teachers, immersing themselves in the art form. The Nrityagram Dance Ensemble, composed of talented dancers from the school, has gained international acclaim for its captivating and sensual performances. The architecture of Nrityagram, designed by Gerard da Cunha, reflects the vernacular style of the region, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Visitors can explore the campus, witness rehearsals and classes, and experience the serene atmosphere that inspires creativity and artistic expression. The village also features a temple with an image of Kelucharan Mohapatra, a guru of Protima Bedi, in a dancing pose. Nrityagram provides a unique cultural experience for art enthusiasts, offering a chance to witness traditional dance performances and interact with resident dancers. It is open to visitors on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm.